Latest news with #heatstress
Times of Oman
a day ago
- Health
- Times of Oman
Health Ministry issues heat safety rules for workers
Muscat: The Ministry of Health has launched a set of comprehensive guidelines aimed at protecting construction workers from the dangers of heat stress during the peak summer months. As part of the national 'Safe Summer' campaign, the initiative provides employers with clear recommendations to safeguard their workforce amid rising temperatures. The advisory outlines three key pillars: Smart Work Scheduling: Employers are urged to assign strenuous tasks during early mornings or late afternoons. To limit exposure, construction and outdoor work must pause between 12:30 p.m. and 3:30 p.m. throughout June, July, and August. Regular Breaks: Workers should be given breaks every 45 to 60 minutes when operating in hot environments. These breaks must be taken in shaded or air-conditioned areas with access to drinking water to maintain hydration. Cooling and Ventilation: The Ministry recommends equipping indoor workspaces with fans or air conditioning. On outdoor sites, portable fans and shaded canopies should be provided to reduce heat exposure. These safety measures are intended to minimise the risk of heat-related illnesses and ensure safe, humane working conditions during Oman's hottest season. The Ministry reaffirmed its commitment to worker health, urging all employers to adhere strictly to the guidelines.
Khaleej Times
7 days ago
- Business
- Khaleej Times
UAE midday break: Mohre inspects construction sites ahead of rule taking effect
The UAE's Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (Mohre) has started inspecting construction sites ahead of the implementation of the summer midday break for workers which will come into effect on Sunday, June 15. Under this regulation, which is now in its 21st year, workers across the UAE are prohibited from working under direct sunlight and in open areas between 12.30pm and 3pm daily, until September 15. This is the period when the country is experiencing peak summer heat. Mohre minister Dr Abdulrahman Al Awar recently led the inspection of a construction site in Dubai to review preparations for the implementation of the seasonal midday break aimed at ensuring a safe working environment, aligned with best practices and occupational health and safety requirements. Al Awar underscored the midday work ban 'requires companies to provide shaded areas for workers at work sites to protect them from heat stress caused by sun exposure, as well as adequate cooling devices, sufficient water to prevent dehydration, first-aid equipment and other comfort facilities.' Stay up to date with the latest news. Follow KT on WhatsApp Channels. According to Mohre, there are exemptions to the midday break, including tasks that must continue uninterrupted for technical reasons, such as laying asphalt or pouring concrete when it is unfeasible to complete these activities after the break. Also exempted from the regulation are works that require addressing hazards or repair issues that impact the community, such as disruptions to water or electricity supply, traffic congestion, and malfunctions in basic services. Companies found violating the rule will be fined Dh5,000 per worker, and can go up to a maximum of Dh50,000 if multiple workers are involved. Mohre reiterated it will monitor compliance through its inspection systems to ensure that no workers are made to work during the prohibited hours. The ministry also asked the published to report any violations during the midday break by contacting the Mohre call centre on 600590000, or through the ministry's website and smart app.
Zawya
12-06-2025
- Health
- Zawya
Oman: Rising temperatures prompt health ministry to warn against heat stress
Muscat – With the mercury climbing across the sultanate, the Ministry of Health has issued a renewed call for public caution, highlighting the risks associated with heat stress. As part of its nationwide 'Safe Summer' awareness campaign, the ministry is encouraging residents to stay informed and take early action to protect themselves during the sweltering summer months. The awareness campaign aims to educate the public on staying healthy and safe during extreme heat conditions. According to the advisory, early signs of heat stress may include profuse sweating, fatigue, intense thirst, and mild headaches. Other symptoms to watch for are nausea, dizziness, difficulty concentrating, irritability, muscle cramps, a rapid heartbeat, and noticeable changes in skin condition, such as redness or warmth. In some cases, individuals may develop cool or moist skin with slight paleness. An elevated body temperature, typically ranging between 38 and 39.5 degrees Celsius, is also a key indicator. The ministry has urged the public to seek shade, stay well hydrated, and avoid strenuous outdoor activities during peak heat hours to reduce the risk of heat-related illnesses. © Apex Press and Publishing Provided by SyndiGate Media Inc. (
Arab News
05-06-2025
- Health
- Arab News
How to stay cool during Hajj
RIYADH: This year, millions of local and international pilgrims have prepared for Saudi Arabia's summer weather by packing essentials and staying hydrated to prevent heat exhaustion. In 2024, approximately 225 pilgrims were treated for heat stress and fatigue at the medical center in Makkah due to heat exhaustion and sunstroke. To minimize the risk of heat-related illnesses during this year's pilgrimage, the Kingdom's Ministry of Health has launched an awareness kit in eight languages. The kit provides guidelines to help pilgrims prevent heat exhaustion. It includes videos, social media posts, and printable materials available in Arabic, English, French, Urdu, Persian, Indonesian, Malay and Turkish. The kit advises pilgrims to stay hydrated and to use umbrellas to reduce direct sun exposure. Huda Almubarak, a Saudi physiotherapist who performed Hajj 11 years ago, shared how she prepared herself physically before the pilgrimage by exercising to improve her stamina. 'On a physical level, I exercised to try to improve my stamina. I (also) attended Hajj class, which helps you prepare yourself for the spiritual journey.' To avoid dehydration, Almubarak drank room temperature water in small amounts throughout the day, maintained a healthy diet, and wore breathable garments. 'I ate a lot of fiber and avoided oily food. I suggest pilgrims wear cotton clothes and proper shoes that have good support for the feet.' For sun protection, she recommended using sunblock, carrying an umbrella, and wearing a hat or cap. Almubarak emphasized the importance of recognizing symptoms of heat exhaustion, which include headaches, excessive sweating, dizziness, fatigue, dry mouth, difficulty concentrating, and pale skin. 'There are medical centers all over the place,' she added. 'It's better to check with them if you experience any symptoms or discomfort.' Thanks to taking these precautionary measures, Almubarak described her Hajj experience as 'uniquely spiritual.' 'Hajj made me appreciate all the power and hard work from our government to make it smoother and safer.' The health awareness kit is available for download at:
Times of Oman
18-05-2025
- Climate
- Times of Oman
Summary: Midday breaks announced for workers in Oman
Muscat: Workers are prohibited from working at construction sites or open areas with high temperatures during the midday hours, from 12:30 p.m. to 3:30 p.m., during the months of June, July, and August. The Ministry of Labour (Mol), said, "A Safe Summer campaign to raise awareness of heat stress and the need to adhere to the midday work stoppage, in accordance with Article (16), Clause (2) of the Occupational Safety and Health Regulations, which states the following: Workers are prohibited from working at construction sites or open areas with high temperatures during the midday hours from 12:30 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. during the months of June, July, and August." The Ministry calls on all private sector establishments to cooperate and comply with this measure, which is part of efforts to promote a safe work environment and reduce heat-related injuries.
